Term 3 Week 4 2025

Principal's Message

On the 1^st August staff from across the Southern Downs and Toowoomba attended the Bishops Inservice Day as a part of Catholic Education Week. We are extremely lucky that Bishop Ken supports such a day to come together, celebrate the Eucharist and listen to guest speakers. This year we listened to Fr Frank Brennan, OAMSJ who shared with us his experiences as a Jesuit Priest, a lawyer and high school maths teacher all rolled into one. Insightfully Fr Frank gave us his thoughts about how he saw Pope Francis as a leader and what he thinks Pope Leo will bring to his leadership as current Pope.

Throughout his messaging it was clear that both Pope Francis and Pope Leo are people of hope and endeavour to instill that message for all. Pope Francis’ address to Educators (January, 2025) highlighted that “a good teacher is a man or a woman of hope, because they devote themselves with confidence and patience to a project of human growth. The hope is not naïve, it is rooted in reality, sustained by the conviction that every educational effort has value and that every person has a dignity and every person has a vocation that deserves to be nurtured”.

This resonated with me as an educator because each day I come to work hopeful that what we do at SMW will make a difference to students and/or families. I believe, we come to work with a deep sense of purpose and a profound belief in your child's potential. Our classrooms are more than just places of learning; they are spaces where curiosity is ignited, challenges are met with resilience, and lifelong passions are discovered. We are dedicated to nurturing not only their academic growth but also their character, helping them build the confidence, empathy, and critical thinking skills they need to thrive in a complex world. Every lesson we plan and every conversation we have is an investment in their future, and we are honoured to be a part of their journey.

Athletics

On Monday 4^th August, I had the privledge of attending the Southern Downs Athletics carnival in Allora. I was immensely proud of the 46 students who attended and represented SMW with pride, determination and grit. I was able to watch students push in shot put, jump in high jump and run in various races. Congratulations to all for their sportsmanship, and a special mention to those who are now going onto Darling Downs Trials, as well as Emily L for achieving Age Champion and Zoe W, runner up for Age Champion!

Flu Season

Currently with seasonal weather changes we are experiencing high numbers of students attending school with coughs, runny noses and generally unwell. Please keep your child/ren home if they are unwell to protect the overall school community. We thank you in advance for your support.

Fr Periya

Sadly we will be farewelling Fr Periya on the 20^th August as he accepts his new position at St George. We thank Fr Periya for his dedication and service to the St Mary’s Parish, including our school community and wish his the very best for his new adventure.  

Strategic Plan 2025-2028

God Bless

Emma Timmins

Principal

Religious Life of the School

Reflecting on Hope

Last week we celebrated Catholic Education Week. The week began with a Liturgy, led by Year Six, focusing on Pope Francis' Jubilee Year of Hope. As we reflected on this theme of hope some in our community shared what they hope for:
Benji - I hope that children in hospitals heal.
Henry - I hope for world peace.
Zane - I hope countries in drought get rain.
Tom - I hope conservation efforts are helping species like the giant panda, humpback whale and sea turtles increase in numbers.
Declan - I hope global marine conservation is bringing life back to coral reefs, protecting whales, and reducing overfishing.
Josh - I hope burnt forests are regrowing thanks to conservation efforts and natures incredible reliance. Ecosystems do recover, with care and patience.
Mason - I hope researchers continue to discover new treatments and vaccines, including those for rare diseases and mental health.
Riley - I hope young people across the world are raising their voices for change. Their creativity and passion are pushing society forward.

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The History of Catholic Education in Warwick

27th January 1867: a small school started by Miss O'Mara under the pastoral guidance of the Parish Priest, Father O'Reilly.

1873: Father Stephen O'Donough applied for a few Sisters of Mercy to come to Warwick.

29th October 1874: Sister Magdalen Rooney, first Superior, and two other Sisters of Mercy arrive renaming the school St Mary's School working out of the Oddfellows Hall.

1876: Mother M Kevin arrived and set about building St Mary's Primary School.

1891: Foundation stone of new convent laid and blessed by Archbishop Dunne.

1893: Convent opened by Archbishop Dunne.

1905: Father Michael Potter, later Monsignor Potter, was appointed the new Parish Priest of Warwick and set about starting building plans for St Joseph's College and the Second St Mary of the Assumption Church.

1912: The Christian Brothers arrived in Warwick to work at St Joseph's College for boys in Grades 4-12. The first community of brothers were first Superior, Athanasius Kelly, along with Stanislaus McIntosh and Mark Reidy.

1912: Secondary education for girls started in primary school building by Sister Mary Vincent Donovan.

1914: Secondary School transferred to rooms in convent. Boarders annexe added; opened by Archbishop Duhig.

1942: Warwick sheltered All Hallows' boarders evacuated during World War II.

1962: Monsignor Potter Memorial School built.

1969: Assumption College built.

1974: At the end of 1974, the decision was made on financial grounds, to discontinue Years 11 and 12 at both the Convent High School and the Christian Brothers College.    

1979: Plans were made to amalgamate the Convent High School and Christian Brothers College under the auspice of the Toowoomba Catholic Education system.  

1979: The first lay principal of St Mary’s School was Mr Bailey Pashley. 

1980: Assumption College became a co-educational Junior Secondary College following the rationalisation of the school system in Warwick.  The boys from St Joseph’s Christian Brothers College came to Assumption College as fulltime students.    

1993: St Mary's Pre-School began and in 2007 Prep replaced the Pre-School. 

2000-01: Assumption College introduced Year 11 and in 2001 graduated its first Year 12 class in twenty-six years.

2013: St Mary’s Kindergarten commenced with the Director, Mrs Marie Sullivan under Brisbane Centacare. In 2020, the Toowoomba Catholic Schools Office took over the governance of the Kindergarten. 

2019: St Mary’s Outside of School Hours Care began under the direction of Mrs Stephanie Shelley. 

2022: The Upper and Lower Campuses of St Mary's combine into one campus at 173 Palmerin Street.

2024: Celebration for 150 years of the Sisters of Mercy.

Feast of the Assumption of Mary

This is always such a special day for our School and Parish. This special feast day is celebrated on 15th August. We will celebrate with a whole school Mass on Friday at 12:30pm in the Church and then we will hold our annual 'Market Day' at 2pm on the school grounds. Each class will raise money for their chosen charity. Students are invited to bring no more then $10. Only cash can be accepted. Please send along 50c and gold coins if possible. There will be a change desk for students to swap notes if needed. Thank you to the parents who have sent in items to help support their child's stall.

In the Feast of the Assumption of Mary, we celebrate Mary’s passing over, body and soul, from this world into the glory of her risen Son. In the gospel, a woman cries out singing praise for Jesus’ mother and how proud and happy she must be. But Jesus tells us that happiness is found in hearing the Word of God and following it.

Let us pray a special prayer about Mary. 

Mary, you were a woman of mercy.    Response:  Pray for us.

Mary, you were a person of faith. Response:  Pray for us.

Mary, you were a woman of prayer. Response:  Pray for us.

Mary, you were wise.   Response:  Pray for us.

Mary, you were a person with great trust.  Response:  Pray for us.

Mary, you were full of compassion.  Response:  Pray for us.

Mary, you were focused on God. Response:  Pray for us.

Mary, who was one of Jesus’ first disciples. Response:  Pray for us.

Mary, who spread the gospel message. Response:  Pray for us.

Mary, who suffered with Jesus, her son. Response:  Pray for us.

Mary, who witnessed the risen Christ. Response:  Pray for us. 

Class Retreats

It has been a wonderful week of giving some of our students the opportunity to pause and reflect on an aspect of God's love. Year 2 had a focus on God's creation and how we can care for it; Year 5 a focus on the Rosary; and Year 6 a focus on The Examen. 

Parish News

First Communion

Workshops - in Parish Office - Thursday 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th  August at 4-5pm

First Communion – either Saturday, 30th August, 5pm or Sunday, 31st August, 8:30am

Parish Celebration – Sunday, 31st August, after Mass

All meetings will be in Parish Office next door to the Church. It is expected that children and a parent will attend all workshops.

Parish Masses

For Winter, Saturday night Mass will now be at 5pm. There is also the Sunday morning at 8:30am option. There is children's liturgy during the Sunday morning Mass through school terms.

Youth Group

Begins this Friday, 15th August for Years 7-10 at the Church Office, Assumption Place Meeting Room.

May peace be with you,

Sharon Young

Assistant Principal - Mission & Identity

“Hope is a light in your heart that gives courage today and strength tomorrow.” 

Curriculum

Term 3 Curriculum Overviews

We’re excited to share this term’s Curriculum Overviews, which were sent home last week. These one-page guides are a great way to stay informed about what your child will be exploring in the classroom over the coming weeks. Each overview outlines the key learning areas, classroom focuses, and important dates for Term 3, giving you a clear snapshot of the term ahead. 

We know how valuable these documents are for supporting learning conversations at home, so we’ve also included digital versions below for easy access. Feel free to refer back to them throughout the term to stay connected with your child’s educational journey.

Sweet Success in Prep Walker! 🍭

Prep Walker has been buzzing with excitement after reaching a major Class Dojo milestone! As a reward for their fantastic teamwork, positive behaviour, and consistent effort, the class voted on a very special treat: to open their very own lolly shop to celebrate!

With shelves stocked full of colourful sweet treats, students were invited to pick and mix their favourites, then weigh and “pay” for their selections at the class register. This hands-on experience wasn’t just delicious, it was also a brilliant way to bring real-world learning into the classroom.

Through this playful and purposeful activity, students explored key mathematical concepts such as weight, counting, money handling, and turn-taking, all in a context that was meaningful and memorable. It’s these kinds of authentic learning opportunities that help build strong foundations and lasting understanding.

Congratulations to Prep Walker for earning such a fun and educational reward - your hard work and positive choices have really paid off!

Library News

Book Week Dress Up

A highlight of the school calendar is our annual Book Week Dress Up. This year it will be held on Thursday, 21st August. This year the theme is 'Book an Adventure' and Mrs Ryan has put together some great ideas for costumes.

Book Donations Wanted for Market Day

We’re calling on all families to have a bookshelf clear out! The library is collecting unwanted books in good condition to sell at this year’s Market Day in Week 5.
All funds raised will go directly to support Pajama Angels, a wonderful charity that helps children in foster care develop literacy skills and a love of learning.
Donations can be dropped off at the library anytime over the next week.
Thank you for helping us turn your preloved stories into a brighter future for others!

Reader's Challenge 

On Thursday the 31st of July, Georgia and Zuriel represented our school in the Reader’s Cup Challenge, held at Warwick High. The students had to read four texts in the lead up to the challenge and then, alongside 10 other teams of students from the region, answer 10 questions about each book. We are incredibly proud of Georgia and Zuriel and the way they represented St. Mary’s. Their dedication, teamwork and love of reading truly shone through! Congratulations, girls.

A heartfelt thank you to Mrs. Melissa McGrath for the time she put into supporting and preparing the students for the Reader’s Cup Challenge. A fantastic effort by all involved. 

Positive School Culture

Arts Extravaganza

At St Mary's, the arts came alive,

With colours and sounds that truly thrived.

From paintings to songs, and music so grand,

Our Extravaganza was the best in the land!

Students showcased their talents with pride,

In every brushstroke and every stride.

We had a night of creative delight,

Where art and joy shone ever so bright! 🎨🎶

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Celebrating Principal Day

The annual Principal Day gives us the opportunity to say thank you to Ms Timmins for everything she does for our community. 

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Mystery Reader

Thank you to our recent wonderful Mystery Readers:

The children were delighted with another visit from Brianna Barlow and her surprise visitors. The little kittens from Ark Animal Support brought much joy!

We also enjoyed the beautiful book 'Two Puggles' read by Katie Land.

Our next visit was from the Dental team, Kesaobaka Seledi and Lauren Van Twest who had some great stories and dental knowledge to share.

Good News Stories

This week we have had a focus on the students looking out for good news stories. They have been busy spotting RISE UP behaviour and writing little 'Good News Stories' for us to celebrate. Congratulations to 3 Hamlin for being the class with the most Good News Stories collected. Followed closely by the staff and then 2 Stevenson. We are so proud - there were over 200 good news stories this week!

Some stories that were shared:

Prep:

Prep B - a group of girls helping another girl.

Evanis - treating his library books with care.

Braddy - being a happy little boy who waves at me.

Year One:

Harper - cleaning the lunch area.

Adelaide - Being kind and friendly.

Jaxx - Listening to instructions and packing up quickly.

Year Two:

Zoe - being caring and kind.

Gracie A - playing with a friend.

Tarlia - following instructions quickly and quietly.

Year Three:

Billy - someone was being left out and he came over to them and asked if they were ok.

Cooper - making the soccer game fair.

Liliana - looking after a small child when they were feeling left out.

Year Four:

Madison - when people are talking near her and she is trying her best to concentrate on the teacher.

Naomi - helped me when I was hurt.

Ava - letting me join in with her game.

Year Five:

Archer - being exceptional at Taekwondo and being selected for the Nationals.

Grace - being a great friend and being kind.

Vinnie - being respectful, safe and exceptional.

Year Six:

Robbie - seeing a need and being helpful when Mrs Wendy was carrying a big pile of boxes.

Charlie - helping a preppie be safe on the monkey bars.

Arden - making everyone feel included and making sure everyone got a fair turn in the game.

Staff:

Mrs Corke - helping me with the iPads.

Ms Hopkins - helping all the people.

Mrs Harper - thank you for being so nice to everyone and teaching us Auslan. You are so nice, thank you so much.

Student Awards

Spotted Rising Up

Congratulations to all the students who have been 'Spotted Rising Up'. The prize winners were Hashveer S and Todd S, which was announced at Assembly on Friday, 8th August 2025.

Please celebrate with your child if they have brought home a Spotted Rising Up slip. It means that they were 'spotted' displaying one or more of the RISE UP positive behaviours. 

Sport

SD Athletics

We had a fantastic team of students attend the Southern Downs Trials for Athletics with some outstanding results and PBs. We are very proud of all who competed and made it to this level of competition. Congratulations to Emily L for being award 9 Years Age Champion and Zoe W, Runner Up for 10 Years Age Champion!

Our school also has the most students attending the next level of competition at the Darling Downs Trials! Congratulations Sophie B, Deakon B, Madison B, Riley B, Liam C, Jack D, Leo F, Emily L, Sylvia M, Zuriel O, Declan R, Bobby-Lee S, Zoe W. If you did not receive your paperwork at the carnival please contact Mrs Young.

Soccer Goals

Special thanks to the Warwick Football Association for the donation of our new soccer goals. We are also very grateful to Brett Mason for picking them up, Damien Young for your muscles, and Wendy Ryan for putting them up, so our kids can enjoy them.

Administration

OHSC Christmas Closure 

OSHC will be closed from 18th December 2025 through to 5th January 2026. 

School Fees

School Fees for Term 3 have been sent out, due back by Monday 18th August 2025. 

Parent Engagement Network (PEN)

Term 3 Date Claimer - 'Real Talk'

The PEN has engaged 'Real Talk' present a workshop on helping caregivers foster healthy self-worth and respectful, flourishing relationships. The workshop will be particularly linked to the sessions they will be holding with our Year 5 & 6 students the following day but will be relevant to all parents and caregivers who want some up-to-date ideas on how to handle these tough and important parenting topics. 

The parent workshop will be Monday, 15th September. More details to follow.

Notices

Kindy Jolly Soles Fundraiser

• You are invited to support our St Mary's Kindy fundraiser. 
• Complete the flyer and return orders by 15th August to the Kindy. Please note it will be CASH only and this will need to be provided with the Order Form.
• Samples of the socks will be on display in the Foyer at Kindy or you can have a look at the designs via the QR code on the order form. There are some fun designs!
• For any further details please contact Marie Sullivan.